What is the first action to take if someone is bleeding heavily?

Applying direct pressure is the most immediate and effective action to take when someone is bleeding heavily. This method helps control the bleeding by promoting clot formation at the site of the injury. By applying a clean cloth or bandage directly onto the wound and maintaining consistent pressure, you can significantly reduce blood loss until professional medical help arrives.

In many cases, applying direct pressure can be sufficient to slow down or stop the bleeding. This step is essential because it stabilizes the situation and buys time for emergency medical services to reach the scene. Starting with direct pressure is a simple and critical first response that can save lives.

Other responses, while important in certain situations, typically follow after initiating direct pressure. For instance, calling for emergency services is crucial, but it should be done after ensuring immediate control of the bleeding. Using a tourniquet or placing the person in a recovery position could be necessary under specific circumstances but are not the first actions to take when immediate, direct measures are warranted to stop the flow of blood.